Buying drugs online is “nearly as convenient as using one’s phone to order a pizza or call an Uber,” a report by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser found. Sadly, an increasing number of grieving parents are painfully discovering the truth behind this statement.
Chris Didier’s 17-year-old son Zach was an Eagle Scout, talented soccer player, and straight-A student who decided to buy what he thought was a Percocet via Snapchat. Unfortunately, that pill was a deadly dose of fentanyl. In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Didier shares his son’s tragic journey, reflects on what he wishes he had known, and shares invaluable advice for other parents.
Zach’s mom has also joined host Angela Kennecke on Grieving Out Loud. You can listen to that episode here.
Learn more about the Emily’s Hope Substance Use Prevention Curriculum here.
MEET THE GUEST
Chris Didier
Father of 3 and retired Air Force officer Chris faced tragedy in Dec. 2020 when his son, Zachary, unknowingly ingested illicit fentanyl, leading to his untimely death at 17. Zach, a talented musician and student, had no history of drug use. Chris, now a United Airlines pilot, dedicates himself to advocacy, serving on the executive board of Victims of Illicit Drugs (VOID). He tirelessly works with state, federal agencies, and school districts nationwide, striving to raise awareness and educate on the dangers of illicit synthetics, all in honor of Zach’s memory.
